Find out what factors could put you at risk for developing bunions.
If your Silver Spring podiatrist has diagnosed you with bunions, the last thing you want to do is exacerbate this problem. Find out if high 
heels could be the cause of your bunions and what you can do to prevent it from getting worse.
What are bunions?
A bunion is a bony protrusion that sticks out at the base of the big toe. This hard formation develops gradually over time and is usually caused by the big toe being forced against the other toes. This pushes the joint of the big toe out of place. As the protrusion grows, it may become painful or even rub against shoes when walking, which can causes calluses and blisters to form. Those with severe bunions may even find it difficult to walk.
Do high heels cause bunions to form?
The big toe is often forced against the other toes when wearing narrow, tight shoes. This is why your Silver Springs podiatrist may recommend that you don’t wear high heels. Though bunions can be caused by foot abnormalities, or other conditions such as arthritis, poor footwear is the most common cause.
How to prevent bunions?
If you want to truly prevent bunions from happening to you then you’ll want to avoid high heels. This means opting for shoes that have no more than a one-inch heel. Sure, you won’t get to enjoy the same towering height that you get with regular high heels but you’ll enjoy healthier feet that don’t cause you pain or discomfort.
So, what kind of shoes should you wear instead?
- Look for shoes that allow your toes room to move around. Your toes should never be bunched together. If you can’t wiggle your toes in your shoes, then don’t wear them!
- When it comes to buying new shoes, turn to an expert in the store to help you. Make sure to walk around in the shoes before buying them, and never buy shoes that are too tight in the hopes that you’ll break them in. Shoes should already fit you properly.
- Look for shoes that offer ample support for both your feet and ankles. If you have any foot defects or abnormalities, talk to your Silver Spring podiatrist about whether custom orthotics are right for you. These prescribed shoe inserts can give your feet the protection they need no matter what your activity level.
What are my treatment options?
The bad news is that the only way to actually get rid of a bunion once it has formed is to have surgery. But if the bunion is caught soon enough, your Silver Spring podiatrist can offer up lifestyle changes to prevent this condition from progressing. This is why it’s important to see us at the first sign of any foot issues. While certain home remedies can be employed for reducing and managing bunion symptoms, it will never eliminate a bunion.
So if you are looking for ways to manage your symptoms or you’re interested in removing your bunion, turn to your Silver Spring podiatrist at Family Foot and Ankle Associates of Maryland for the solution you need to promote better foot health.